MONTPELIER — Vermont highway and transportation officials say in addition to expanding the use of brine, they’ve increased the use of their “tow plows,” which can cover two lanes on Interstate 89 in a single pass.

There also are new penalties aimed at combating distracted driving. Starting Jan. 1, 2014, it will be illegal for a driver to use a handheld electronic device in a work zone. A conviction for a first offense may result in a fine of $230 and a 2-point assessment on a driver’s license. A second conviction carries a fine of $479 and 5 points on a license.

There will also be an increase in the point assessment for a conviction of a first offense of texting while driving, increasing from 2 points to 5 points.